Dispute over snowman leads to home invasion charge

Izaskun E. Larrañeta

Clinton — A local man was arrested Thursday after he allegedly broke into his neighbor's home because he believed that two juveniles who lived there had pushed over a snowman that was in his yard.

James Knudsen, 22, of 14 Old Mill Road, Unit 6, was charged Thursday with home invasion, second-degree burglary, second-degree criminal mischief, two counts of third-degree assault and disorderly conduct.

Police said that Knudsen forced his way into his neighbor's home and damaged the entry door in the process. Once inside, police said, he grabbed a pool stick, swung it around and attempted to confront the occupants.

At some point, police said, he dropped the stick and punched two juveniles, ages 16 and 17, in the face.

The teens sustained minor injuries to their faces, but did not require further medical attention.

Police said Knudsen believed that the juveniles had pushed down a snowman that he built in his yard.

Knudsen is being held on a $5,000 bond, and is scheduled to be arraigned Friday in Middletown Superior Court.